Duke’s secondary enters the 2026 season with a starkly different composition compared to the unit that helped the Blue Devils capture the 2025 ACC Championship. The team has lost cornerstone players such as Chandler Rivers, Caleb Weaver and Terry Moore, all of whom contributed heavily in the previous campaign.
A Competitive Landscape
Coach Manny Diaz has made it clear that no starting spots have been handed out. In his view, the secondary is a blank slate where every athlete must prove his readiness through performance in practice and preseason work.
The departure of experienced safeties opens the door for new talent. Among the returning veterans, Kimari Robinson and Landan Callahan are expected to vie for cornerback slots, while fresh arrivals Dylan Flowers and Kyon Loud bring additional depth and versatility.
Safety Spotlight
DaShawn Stone has been locked in as the starting safety, but the position still harbors a contest. Andrew Pellicciotta and North Texas transfer Patrick Smith‑Young are both pushing for meaningful snaps, promising a dynamic battle that could shape the unit’s early chemistry.
The mix of seasoned holdovers and promising newcomers creates a narrative of renewal for Duke’s defense. With the coaching staff emphasizing earned playing time, the 2026 secondary is poised to be one of the most watched storylines in the ACC.